Arjuna says strong middle-order batsmen needed to win matches for Sri Lanka

One-time world cup winning captain turned politician Arjuna Ranatunga has pointed out that the Sri Lankan team needs a strong middle-order batting line-up to strengthen its  unit.

Speaking to the press following an event yesterday (Jun 16), Mr. Ranatunga insisted that an international investigation must be carried out into the pitches which had been prepared for the Sri Lankan matches.

"I feel that a written complaint must be handed over to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding this matter," he urged. "However, I do not know whether the present Sri Lankan cricket administrators have sufficient knowledge of the game to take such action."

Minister Ranatunga also commented on Sri Lanka's defeat with Australia on Saturday. He opined that the absence of proper middle-order batsmen had contributed to the loss despite some brilliant performances by the opening batsmen and the bowlers.

"We should know to win by utilising our existing resources. Our team lacks the skill of doing that. The management too doesn't know to condition the players mentally," the former national skipper said.

He also took charge at the large number of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) officials who have taken wing to England to witness the world cup matches. "This is like an excursion. We are watching as bystanders as they exploit our country's money. The government too is doing the same," he claimed.